Vaping is strictly prohibited on all American Airlines flights and in its airport facilities (gate areas, lounges). This ban applies throughout the entire flight, including while sitting at your seat, standing in the aisle, and inside the aircraft lavatories.
American Airlines Vaping Rules: The Core Ban
American Airlines policy explicitly forbids passengers and crew from using any electronic smoking devices onboard its aircraft and within the entire cabin environment.
- Using electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes, vape pens, mods).
- Charging electronic smoking devices (can be a fire hazard).
- Placing activated devices in checked baggage.
The rules apply regardless of the flight phase (boarding, taxi, takeoff, cruise, descent, landing) or destination. Vaping in the airplane lavatory is a common violation attempt, but it is still strictly forbidden and detectable.
Consequences of Vaping Onboard
Violating the no-vaping rule triggers significant and immediate consequences:
- Flight Crew Intervention: Crew members will immediately instruct you to stop. Refusal is not tolerated.
- Confiscation: The crew may confiscate your vaping device for the remainder of the flight.
- Possible Restraint: Severe or non-compliant cases may lead to physical restraint using items like flex-cuffs for safety.
- Diversion/Landing: The captain may decide to divert the flight to the nearest suitable airport to offload a non-compliant passenger. You will be responsible for all associated costs.
- Fines: You face substantial civil penalties imposed by the FAA. Penalties typically range from $2000 to $4000 for a single offense.
- Airline Ban: American Airlines may ban you from future flights (possible permanent ban).
- Legal Action: Law enforcement may meet the aircraft upon arrival. Depending on jurisdiction and behavior, you could face state or local charges (e.g., disorderly conduct, endangering aircraft).
Under no circumstances is vaping permitted on American Airlines flights. The penalties extend beyond immediate inconvenience to significant financial and legal repercussions, including a potential permanent ban from the airline.
